Make a valid will; the latest conflicting will prevails, and notarized wills no longer automatically outrank others
Chinese law recognizes six forms of will, each with formal requirements. A handwritten will must be entirely written, signed and dated with year, month and day by the testator. If several valid wills conflict, the latest governs. Since 2021, notarization no longer gives an earlier will automatic priority.
What it takes
A handwritten will is free. Chinese notarization costs hundreds to over RMB 1,000. Discussing death with family may be the difficult part.
What you may gain
China's Civil Code recognizes handwritten, dictated, printed, audio/video, oral and notarized wills, each with its own required formalities. Among conflicting wills, the latest prevails; notarized wills lost automatic priority in 2021.
Context & considerations
A handwritten will requires the testator's complete handwriting, signature and full date. A printed will requires at least two witnesses; the testator and witnesses sign every page and record the full date. Heirs, beneficiaries and their close relatives cannot act as witnesses. Defective form can invalidate the will and is a common failure point.
Research & references
National People's Congress of China (2020). Civil Code, Articles 1134–1142. https://www.spp.gov.cn/spp/fl/202006/t20200602_463888.shtml